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About the New Colombo Plan

The New Colombo Plan is a signature initiative of the Australian Government which aims to lift knowledge of the Indo Pacific in Australia by supporting Australian undergraduates to study and undertake internships in the region.

The New Colombo Plan involves a scholarships program for study of up to one year and internships or mentorships, and a flexible mobility grants program for both short and longer-term study, internships, mentorships, practicums and research.

The New Colombo Plan is intended to be transformational, deepening Australia's relationships in the region, both at the individual level and through expanding university, business and other stakeholder links.

It will encourage a two-way flow of students with the region, complementing the thousands of students from the region coming to Australia to study each year.

Over time, the Australian Government wants to see study in the Indo Pacific region become a rite of passage for Australian undergraduate students, and as an endeavour that is highly valued across the Australian community.

The Australian Government has committed $100 million over five years to the New Colombo Plan.

"Our country will benefit enormously from having young ambassadors from Australia who have an understanding of and an insight into the region that only comes from living and studying and working there."

Minister for Foreign Affairs, the Hon Julie Bishop MP at the University of Sydney on 16 May 2014.

"I envisage that by spending a year in Indonesia, I can deepen my current understanding of Indonesian culture, religion and society. I hope to form strong connections with more individuals and institutions working in human rights and gender equality which will benefit me in my future career."

Emma Roberts, Australian National University New Colombo Plan Yudhoyono (Indonesia) Fellow. 25 June 2014.

"I am confident that the New Colombo Plan will play an important role in strengthening our education and people-to-people ties. The New Colombo Plan also reflects the Australian Government's broader focus on enhancing its engagement with Asia."

President Tony Tan Keng Yam, of Singapore at the University of Adelaide on 17 June 2014.